Winter sports to keep you busy

When winter sets in, sometimes cabin fever does too. We lock ourselves indoors and more often than not, we don’t get enough exercise. This is bad all around, since a lack of physical activity can lead to unnecessary weight gain and even depression. You could hit the gym in order to fulfill your New Year’s resolution, or you could have a bit more fun. Here are three physical activities that are fun, exciting and hopefully fulfilling.

1. Ice Skating

Ice skating is another winter favorite. There are also several locations for one to ice skate both in and around union. While ice skating rinks are usually indoors, they tend to be very chilly which means that those who wish to skate should dress warmly. In regards to the type of skate that one should pick, it is important to take experience into account. Novice skaters should pick figure skates. According to WebMD, ice skating is “a low-impact exercise” which means that it is “good for building lower-body muscles including the hips, hamstrings, quadriceps and calves.” In terms of burning calories, ice skating can be beneficial particularly if you are a beginner. WebMD states that newer skaters “may use a lot of energy just getting around a rink a few times.” However, this means that as skaters gain experience, they will have a less arduous time moving around the rink. Another fact to note is that “skates run about a size below street shoes.” According to WebMD, ignorance of this fact often causes people a great deal of pain since the skates that are too large do not fit snuggly at the ankle.

2. Skiiing

While this may be the first winter sport that comes to mind, its significance can’t be denied. Skiing is fun and can give you an adrenaline rush. According to WebMD “skiing is a power sport that improves balance, flexibility, agility and leg and core strength.” What’s more, this sort of activity “burns about 360 to 570 calories per hour” for “weighing 150 pounds.” When skiing downhill, it is important to note that one should go at his or her own pace. Try not to start on a slope that is too high, since doing so may cause injury. WebMD also warns “beginners to avoid altitudes that are too high” due to “the possibility of altitude sickness.”

3. Sledding

Sledding is a fun way to get a rush and even burn calories. All you need is a sled. You can purchase one at the local Wal-Mart or perhaps a second-hand goods store such as Goodwill or Salvation Army. When sledding, it is a good idea to bundle up. One should also wear sturdy boots for that long trudge up a hill. It’s also a good idea to have multiple friends along for the ride in case someone gets hurt. One should also be careful when picking out hills from which to sled. Union may have a few nice hills, but it also has lots of concrete and sidewalks.